When you've read and understood these you have a solid basis:Sun's basic Java tutorial
Sun's New To Java Center
Includes an overview of what Java is, instructions for setting up Java, an intro to programming (that includes links to the above tutorial or to parts of it), quizzes, a list of resources, and info on certification and courses.

JavaRanch
To quote the tagline on their homepage: "a friendly place for Java greenhorns." FAQs, forums (moderated, I believe), sample code, all kinds of goodies for newbies. From what I've heard, they live up to the "friendly" claim.

Agreed, this is the place you must take off your start. All the basis you want to touch is there. Organized it well too. My recommendation is before go to any other materials, read the complete tutorial and workout all the examples there.